Using a chain row counter for knitting couldn't be easier, sure it looks daunting, however once you get going you'll be wanting to use one every time. Plus it adds a little more excitement to your project.
There a few designs of row counter which can be used, there are the long chains which have 10 loops, with numbered beads between each one, or there are the more simpler ones which are just10 loops connected by a jump ring.
There is also the design which includes numbered beads connected in a loop and a stitch marker. These are more compact and can either come with a snagless loop to attach to knitting needles or a lobster clasp which can be hooked on to project bags or crochet projects.
A lot of chain counters tend be decorative with coloured beads and cute charms, and can make the perfect gift for people who love to knit.
The basic make up of a knitting row counter is 10 connected loops and 1 stitch marker. Most row counters have the capacity to count up to 99 rows if used correctly.
To start using your row counter knit half the stitches required for your pattern, then slip the first loop of the chain on to the right hand needle. Continue knitting to the end of the row.
Turn your work and knit back along the stitches, when you get to the place where your row counter is attached, take the loop off the left needle and place the next loop down the chain on to the right hand needle.
The chain should now be between the 1 and 2 marker, or on the second loop of the more simpler chains.
Its important to keep the row counter on the knit side of your project at all times. If working in garter stitch, flip the row counter over the needles at the end of each row so its always facing you.
Continue to work down the chain with every row that you knit, with row 6 your chain should be on the 6th chain and row 8 on the 8th chain etc.
Once you are on the 10th row of your project you should be on the last loop of your chain.
To use your chain to count higher than 10, you will now start to use the stitch marker provided.
Knit your project to the place where the chain is, place the 1st loop at the top of the chain back on to the right hand needle. Now use your stitch marker and attach it the first loop. The stitch marker will be used to mark every 10th row and will remain on this loop as you continue to work down the chain e.g. on row 15, the knitting needles will be on the 5th loop of the chain and the stitch marker will be on the 1st loop.
Continue working down the chain returning to the first loop after every 10th row, also continue to move the stitch marker down the chain with every 10th row, e.g row 69 would be represented as the knitting needle through the 9th loop on your chain, and the stitch marker on the 6th loop of your chain.
You are now ready to use your row counter like an expert, please feel free to leave a comment on your personal insights on using one of these useful tools.
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